Wholesale distribution industry opposes Teamsters strike against UPS

The National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors (NAW), the voice of the $8.2 trillion wholesale distribution industry, that employs over 6 million U.S. workers, and is essential to our nation’s economic health and the flow of goods and services, released the following statement in opposition to the UPS Driver Strike:

“Distributors and our supply chain partners are closely watching the outcomes of this negotiation,” said NAW President and CEO Eric Hoplin. “Once again, America’s supply chain and economy are being held hostage by labor unions and their plans to strike. Union Bosses are threatening our supply chain, the economy, and American families and businesses based on lofty whims and political agendas.

A strike by UPS drivers affects every American household and stops the US supply chain in its tracks. Blocking millions of dollars of essential products from families, companies, and institutions that need them to live, work, build, heal, educate, transport, and protect this great nation. Without partners like our carriers, access to essential products and materials stall, putting life on hold for everyone who depends on them.

Family-owned distributors make up the bulk of our industry, and many rely heavily on UPS for inbound and outbound deliveries of products to their customers, and will feel the pain acutely, with massive delays, price increases, and reduced inventory of vital goods and services.

While America relies on distributors and their unique ability to get products to their destination, should talks stall, the impact and magnitude of this strike will feel similar to the disruptions seen during the global pandemic,” concluded Hoplin.